Building Togetherness
Before COVID, I always felt this disconnect in the Western world. Where deep connection was slim and masses were called and funneled in only on special occasions and holidays. When the pandemic hit this additional wedge was placed, while people missed being out and about I noticed that the majority of people were quick to say they missed the convenience of our fast paced world. Little did I hear “I miss gathering with friends, sharing a meal each week with family” … as time went on it seemed as if slow beautiful memories became a thing of the past.
My family is not without flaws. We too were caught up in the hustle of work, the overly played out chase of the American dream with little to no time to spare for the things that mattered most. I found us going against the very pillars we built our life upon, to be present, to be intentional, to gather more, to live slowly, to welcome our friends and family for a meal and gift to them an atmosphere that was warm, safe and welcoming. So I recollected myself and my thoughts, we got back to the roots of our beliefs and I started Linen and Lodge to help others find their way… or way back. This was my restoration.
Modern day conversations and gatherings have made their way to shallow experiences. The majority of whispered overheard conversations are doused gossip or complaints. I am extremely lucky to have family and friends who can gather and speak life, this common gravitational pull of being able to dream together and genuine connection. I noticed when I shifted my focus to really have this lifestyle encompass my whole life that I had little room for energy that did not align. When you gather, what is the intention? What feelings do you crave to walk away with? Joy? Understanding? Calm? Let’s dive into building togetherness.
When congregating, leave the baggage at the door! There is a no drama policy we should collectively agree on, leave the politics on the ballad, call the family truce… Listen to your people as if they were the most captivating chapter in a book and connect over shared memories. And when you do so, leave space for those around you, to join, to laugh, to cry. Allow opportunity for everyone to find a moment to add their imprint on these moments you’ll carry forever.
Above this set time to connect, and do so over just another Tuesday, a summer solstice, a last minute candlelit evening. Make it meaningful, a weekend potluck, go antiquing together, invite all the kids or all the dogs… in our case both. And when you do be here.. and now. Be grateful for every second every moment, because at the end of your day this could be it. Don’t let an unpromised tomorrow and an unchangeable yesterday rob you of the now and the memories you could be creating with all of those you love.